A ladies and gentlemen to dine Christmas Social was the perfect way to wrap up 2025 for the very busy Thornton and Cleveleys Chapter No 3854. The December gathering of this North Fylde chapter was a brief but purposeful business meeting which included the announcement of a local brother for exaltation in the New Year.
The chapter was very pleased to hear a thorough and at times quite emotional almoners report from Roger Lloyd-Jones. Following his report, first principal Jon Davies thanked Roger for his continuous hard work in supporting all the chapter widows and companions through their individual illnesses and ailments. All the members and visitors gave a rapturous round of applause for Roger.
After the meeting, the companions moved swiftly downstairs to meet and greet their partners and friends for a welcomed drink before occupying the round tables within the festive board room. The Chorley Silver Band members had arrived and were skilfully setting up their performance space ready for the start of their two-hour programme of seasonal music and favourite carols.
Following an introduction and welcome from the chapter director of ceremonies Eric Peat, the first course of delightful mushroom soup, melon or prawn cocktail was served. The sounds of brass instruments filled the room and accompanied the diners throughout the starter and a main course of traditional turkey plus all the usual vegetables and cranberry sauce. A variety of desserts were enjoyed by all in attendance followed by delicious home-made mince pies.
Following the third course, it was time for a singalong. Under the direction of band leader Alistair, band members responded to requests from the audience and played a range of seasonal favourites that commenced with ‘Whilst shepherds watched their flocks’ and ‘Away in a manger’. The singing was paused for a few moments whilst the chapter charity steward Roger Lloyd-Jones led a ‘Chorley raffle’ which enabled the chapter to raise £152 for Masonic and non-Masonic charities. As the singing resumed the requests continued to flood in and Alistair distributed a number of hand-held silver bells which the audience shook with gusto during a rendition of Rudolf the red-nosed reindeer.
The evening of entertainment came to an end with a lively chorus of We wish you a merry Christmas, following which, the chapter assistant director of ceremonies Mark Tomlinson thanked the band for playing so beautifully and wished everyone the best for the festive season and a safe drive home.
